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Media Advisory: Governor General to Present 34 Military Decorations at Rideau Hall

OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - March 20, 2013) - His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General and Commander-in-Chief of Canada, will present 34 Meritorious Service Decorations (Military Division) to members of Canadian and allied forces. The presentation ceremony will take place on Friday, March 22, 2013, at 10:30 a.m., at Rideau Hall.

The Governor General will present 1 Meritorious Service Cross (Military Division) and 33 Meritorious Service Medals (Military Division) to individuals whose specific achievements have brought honour to the Canadian Forces and to Canada.

A media schedule for the presentation ceremony, a list of recipients and their citations, and additional information on Meritorious Service Decorations (Military Division) are attached.

Media wishing to cover the ceremony are asked to contact the Rideau Hall Press Office and must arrive at the Princess Anne Entrance no later than 10:15 a.m. on the day of the ceremony.

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CEREMONY SCHEDULE

Members of the media are asked to observe the following schedule:

10:30 a.m.:

Ceremony begins

The Governor General speaks

The Governor General presents the military decorations

The Chief of the Defence Staff speaks

11:30 a.m.:

Ceremony ends

11:45 a.m.:

Media interviews with recipients

RECIPIENTS

MERITORIOUS SERVICE DECORATIONS

Meritorious Service Cross (Military Division)

Lieutenant-Colonel Barry Marshall Southern, M.S.C., M.S.M., C.D.

Ottawa, Ont.

Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)

Petty Officer 1st Class Daniel James Maurice Ash, M.S.M., C.D.

Halifax, N.S.

Major Daniel Auger, M.S.M., C.D.

Verdun, Que.

Sergeant Joseph Claude Patrick Auger, M.S.M., C.D.

Montréal, Que.

Chief Warrant Officer Gérald Blais, M.S.M., C.D.

Montréal, Que.

Major Pascal Blanchette, M.S.M., C.D.

Chatham, Ont.

Lieutenant-Colonel Kirk Douglas Bland, M.S.M., C.D.

Halifax, N.S.

Lieutenant-Colonel Sébastien Bouchard, M.S.M., C.D.

Québec, Que.

Lieutenant-Colonel Charles Douglas Claggett, M.S.M., C.D.

Calgary, Alta.

Lieutenant-Commander Matthew David Coates, M.S.M., C.D.

Calgary, Alta. and Kingston, Ont.

Lieutenant-Colonel David Bruce Cochrane, M.S.M., C.D.

Weston, Ont.

Colonel David Bruce Cochrane, M.S.M., C.D.
Colonel Cochrane will be recognized with the Meritorious Service Medal for two separate events.

Weston, Ont.

Chief Warrant Officer Daniel Alexander Debrie, M.S.M., C.D.

Missanabie, Ont.

Lieutenant-Colonel Brian Charles Derry, M.S.M., C.D.

Madoc, Ont.

Lieutenant-Colonel Martin Andreas Frank, M.S.M., C.D.

Chilliwack, B.C.

Lieutenant(N) Melissa Helen Fudge, M.S.M.

Nigadoo, N.B.

Major Joseph Jean-Louis Denis Gendron, M.S.M., C.D.

Montréal, Que.

Lieutenant(N) Jean-Eudes Gendron, M.S.M., C.D.

Port Cartier, Que.

Petty Officer 2nd Class Philip Murray Gormley, M.S.M., C.D.

Derry, Northern Ireland and Ottawa, Ont.

Warrant Officer Paul Derrick Goulding, M.S.M., C.D.

Gander, N.L.

Lieutenant-Colonel Robert Harrison, M.S.M., C.D.

Kingston, Ont.

Major Guy Charles Ingram, M.S.M., C.D.

New Lowell, Ont.

Colonel Eric Jean Kenny, M.S.M., C.D.

Medley, Alta.

Corporal Ashraf Khalil, M.S.M.

Ottawa, Ont.

Commander Stéphane Joseph Dominique Lafond, M.S.M., C.D.

Plessisville, Que.

Colonel Alexander Donald Meinzinger, M.S.M., C.D.

Trenton, Ont.

Lieutenant-Colonel Mark Misener, M.S.M., C.D.

Iroquois Falls, Ont.

Commander Derek Moss, M.S.M., C.D.

Portsmouth, U.K.and Yellowknife, N.W.T.

Lieutenant-Colonel John Paganini, M.S.M. (United States Army)

Old Bridge, New Jersey, U.S.A.

Colonel Michael Matthew Lawrence Rafter, M.S.M., C.D.

Ottawa, Ont.

Major Jeffrey Alan Rodger, M.S.M., C.D.

Victoria, B.C.

Major Harjit Sajjan, M.S.M., C.D.

Vancouver, B.C.

Colonel James Baxter Simms, O.M.M., M.S.M., C.D.

Kingston, Ont.

Colonel Steven Joseph Russell Whelan, M.S.M., C.D.

Ottawa, Ont.

Please note that the information in this media advisory reflects the rank of the recipient at the time of the event for which they are being recognized.

CITATIONS

MERITORIOUS SERVICE DECORATIONS (MILITARY DIVISION)

Meritorious Service Cross (Military Division)

Lieutenant-Colonel Barry Marshall Southern, M.S.C., M.S.M., C.D.

Ottawa, Ontario

As Canadian defence attaché at the Canadian Embassy in Libya during 2011, Lieutenant-Colonel Southern played a pivotal role in the successful and safe evacuation of Canadian citizens from that country. In difficult and dangerous situations, he showed an innate cultural awareness and intrinsic leadership ability. Lieutenant-Colonel Southern also provided vital support to the Ambassador in the re-establishment of the embassy, while taking on the responsibility of chargé d'affaires-an opportunity rarely accorded to a defence attaché.

Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)

Petty Officer 1st Class Daniel James Maurice Ash, M.S.M., C.D.

Halifax, Nova Scotia

From June 2007 to May 2011, Petty Officer 1st Class Ash was the primary military member of RANA FM, a local radio station which linked Kandahar civilians to Canadian and coalition forces operating in Afghanistan. His decisiveness and dedication while verifying radio broadcasts and developing procedures to deal with telephone calls regarding insurgent activities, directly contributed to the enhancement of in-theatre intelligence. Petty Officer 1st Class Ash's professionalism and leadership allowed RANA FM to become a vital intelligence asset for operations in Kandahar.

Major Daniel Auger, M.S.M., C.D.

Verdun, Quebec

As commander of operations and chief of staff of the Operational Mentoring and Liaison Team in Afghanistan, from April to October 2009, Major Auger distinguished himself through his leadership and professionalism. Faced with an increased number of units under Canadian mentorship, he ensured that the teams were properly equipped to meet the challenges of their mission and command expectations. Major Auger's coordination and tactical acumen greatly improved the operational efficiency of the Afghan units.

Sergeant Joseph Claude Patrick Auger, M.S.M., C.D.

Montréal, Quebec

On December 18, 2010, during a reconnaissance operation to secure a road building project in Afghanistan, Sergeant Auger's platoon came upon a group of buildings that had been heavily booby trapped with explosive devices. Following explosions that seriously injured several of his soldiers, Sergeant Auger took charge of the situation calmly and in an exemplary manner. He regained control of his soldiers and ensured the rapid evacuation of the wounded personnel. Sergeant Auger's expertise and actions minimized the disastrous consequences of a chaotic and very dangerous situation.

Chief Warrant Officer Gérald Blais, M.S.M., C.D.

Montréal, Quebec

From May to July 2011, Chief Warrant Officer Blais distinguished himself as Joint Task Force Afghanistan regimental sergeant-major when appointed to this position with little notice. In theatre since August 2010, as regimental sergeant-major of Headquarters and Signals Squadron, he demonstrated loyalty and flexibility, which eased his acceptance by troops and ensured full continuity of Task Force command. Chief Warrant Officer Blais' personal and professional attributes contributed greatly to the success of the Canadian Forces' counter-insurgency operations.

Major Pascal Blanchette, M.S.M., C.D.

Chatham, Ontario

As officer commanding Engineer Support Squadron in Afghanistan from November 2010 to July 2011, Major Blanchette ensured the provision of first-rate engineering support to Task Force Kandahar. Operating during a period of unprecedented expansion and transition, he contributed to the construction of over 30 tactical infrastructure installations, including Route Hyena, a critical road in the Horn of Panjwayi. Major Blanchette's acute resource management and outstanding performance contributed directly to operational success and ensured an efficient handover to our allies.

Lieutenant-Colonel Kirk Douglas Bland, M.S.M., C.D.

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Lieutenant-Colonel Bland was deployed to Naples, Italy, from April to June 2011, as part of Canada's contribution to the NATO mission to protect the people of Libya. His leadership and unwavering dedication enabled the establishment of the Canadian National Intelligence Centre and its ongoing success. He forged a highly effective team of civilian and military experts that rapidly and consistently provided meaningful, accurate and actionable intelligence to the Commander. Lieutenant-Colonel Bland's efforts contributed directly to operational success, and brought great credit to Canada.

Lieutenant-Colonel Sébastien Bouchard, M.S.M., C.D.

Québec, Quebec

As commanding officer of the National Support Element of Joint Task Force Afghanistan from November 2010 to July 2011, Lieutenant-Colonel Bouchard distinguished himself by his leadership and dedication. Through his continued efforts, both at the forefront and behind the scenes, and through his determination, he shrewdly led his team, identified and implemented solutions, and provided ongoing support to the Canadian Forces. Lieutenant-Colonel Bouchard's performance in a dynamic theatre of operations was key to the Element's operational success.

Lieutenant-Colonel Charles Douglas Claggett, M.S.M., C.D.

Calgary, Alberta

As chief of staff of Joint Task Force Afghanistan from September 2010 to 2011, Lieutenant-Colonel Claggett was instrumental to the capability of the Task Force Headquarters. Supporting operations in Afghanistan's demanding counter-insurgency environment, he fully understood and implemented the commander's intent while ensuring synchronization with our allies. Lieutenant-Colonel Claggett's skills as a leader, planner and diplomat were critical to the operational success of the mission.

Lieutenant-Commander Matthew David Coates, M.S.M., C.D.

Calgary, Alberta and Kingston, Ontario

As executive officer of Her Majesty's Canadian Ship Charlottetown from March to August 2011, Lieutenant-Commander Coates was vital to Canada's notable contribution to NATO operations in Libya. His leadership and in-depth knowledge of their capabilities significantly expedited deployment preparations and kept the crew focused as the mission evolved. During several engagements involving shore weapons and attack boats, his composure instilled confidence throughout the ship's company. Lieutenant-Commander Coates' efforts were critical to operational success.

Lieutenant-Colonel David Bruce Cochrane, M.S.M., C.D.

Weston, Ontario

Lieutenant-Colonel Cochrane served as commanding officer of the Joint Task Force Afghanistan Air Wing Theatre Support Element at Camp Mirage, from June to December 2009. His leadership was critical to maintaining airlift support for operations in Afghanistan and his diplomatic skills enabled him to establish relationships with the host nation that benefitted Canadian and coalition operations, both at Camp Mirage and in Afghanistan. Lieutenant-Colonel Cochrane's exemplary dedication, tact and operational focus contributed to the success of the Afghan mission, and enhanced Canada's international reputation.

Colonel David Bruce Cochrane, M.S.M., C.D.

Weston, Ontario

Colonel Cochrane demonstrated exceptional leadership and service as the 8 Wing commander between February 2010 and November 2011. He assumed command during a period of unprecedented intensity in the operations and his leadership ensured that 8 Wing was able to succeed in its critical role to support the Canadian Forces. Colonel Cochrane inspired those around him with his exemplary dedication and professionalism, and brought great credit to the Royal Canadian Air Force and to the Canadian Forces as a whole.

This is the second Meritorious Service Medal for Colonel Cochrane.

Chief Warrant Officer Daniel Alexander Debrie, M.S.M., C.D.

Missanabie, Ontario

As operations chief warrant officer of the Engineer Support Squadron from November 2010 to August 2011, Chief Warrant Officer Debrie facilitated the expansion of coalition forces in the Horn of Panjwayi. Responsible for designing and constructing new tactical infrastructure, he optimized the use of scarce resources and ensured the framework would be sustainable in austere locations. Chief Warrant Officer Debrie's leadership, expert knowledge and determination enhanced the sustainment and protection of Canadian, American and Afghan forces.

Lieutenant-Colonel Brian Charles Derry, M.S.M., C.D.

Madoc, Ontario

As commanding officer of the Canadian Helicopter Force (Afghanistan) from March to August 2011, Lieutenant-Colonel Derry ensured the provision of exceptional helicopter support to Canadian and coalition forces. He conducted a full spectrum of operations-from troop insertions in austere locations to armed escort and overwatch-which were critical to the unit's operational success. Whether personally flying combat missions, coaching his team or championing the introduction of enhanced capabilities, Lieutenant-Colonel Derry enhanced the profile of Canadian aviation.

Lieutenant-Colonel Martin Andreas Frank, M.S.M., C.D.

Chilliwack, British Columbia

As deputy commanding officer of the Operational Mentor and Liaison Team from April to November 2010, Lieutenant-Colonel Frank was critical to the growth of Afghan National Security Forces. He established important contacts and brought together many diverse organizations during planning sessions. His leadership and diplomacy shaped the development plan for all of Kandahar Province and the Canadian area of operations. Lieutenant-Colonel Frank's efforts strengthened the capabilities of the Afghan forces.

Lieutenant(N) Melissa Helen Fudge, M.S.M.

Nigadoo, New Brunswick

As lead intelligence analyst from May 2010 to November 2011, Lieutenant(N) Fudge provided outstanding strategic analysis to global intelligence and security agencies on human smuggling in Southeast Asia. Her unconditional support aboard Her Majesty's Canadian Ship Winnipeg had a direct impact on the highly visible and internationally recognized Operation Poseidon 1-10, which led to the successful interdiction of an illegal migrant vessel en route to Canada. Lieutenant(N) Fudge's actions contributed to national security and brought great credit to the Canadian Forces.

Major Joseph Jean-Louis Denis Gendron, M.S.M., C.D.

Montréal, Quebec

From December 2008 to February 2009, Major Gendron, leading the team tasked with transferring six Chinook aircraft from the U.S. Army to the Canadian Forces, distinguished himself by representing Canada brilliantly. His leadership and diplomacy helped to ensure the co-operation of American forces. Major Gendron's efforts and insight contributed significantly to the airworthiness certification of the aircraft and to operational success in Afghanistan.

Lieutenant(N) Jean-Eudes Gendron, M.S.M., C.D.

Port Cartier, Quebec

From March to August 2011, Lieutenant(N) Gendron served as combat officer aboard Her Majesty's Canadian Ship Charlottetown, deployed to the Mediterranean in response to the civil war in Libya. He earned the respect of his international partners when he coordinated the protection of Misrata's port with NATO and its allies. Lieutenant(N) Gendron's exceptional tactical planning and unwavering dedication in the face of ever-present threats to the ship helped to ensure the success of this mission and to provide security to the Libyan people.

Petty Officer 2nd Class Philip Murray Gormley, M.S.M., C.D.

Derry, Northern Ireland and Ottawa, Ontario

From March to August 2011, Petty Officer 2nd Class Gormley was deployed aboard Her Majesty's Canadian Ship Charlottetown as part of the NATO mission to protect the people of Libya. He established and maintained an effective communications link with the port authority in Misratah, which facilitated the passage of critical intelligence and enabled the delivery of humanitarian aid to the besieged city. Petty Officer 2nd Class Gormley's ability directly contributed to the success of the mission and brought great credit to the Canadian Forces.

Warrant Officer Paul Derrick Goulding, M.S.M., C.D.

Gander, Newfoundland and Labrador

While deployed to Italy as deputy maintenance flight commander for the Aurora aircraft from May 2011 to November 2011, Warrant Officer Goulding was a vital part of Canada's contribution to NATO operations in Libya. Under his leadership, major infrastructure changes were initiated and the fleet's inaugural deployed Manual of Aerospace Procedures was developed. Warrant Officer Goulding's efforts and vast knowledge were critical to forging a robust maintenance organization that ensured an ideal serviceability rate and provided the task force with uninterrupted access to a critical capability.

Lieutenant-Colonel Robert Harrison, M.S.M., C.D.

Kingston, Ontario

Lieutenant-Colonel Harrison's dedication and leadership as acting 1 Wing commander, from September 2008 to May 2009, was critical to the rapid, effective and successful deployment of Tactical Aviation personnel and equipment to Afghanistan. He was the galvanizing force behind the Wing's swift and effective introduction of Chinook and new Griffon helicopters in theatre. Lieutenant-Colonel Harrison's initiative and planning directly enhanced the capability of Canada's deployed aviation forces and contributed to their success, bringing credit to the Canadian Forces.

Major Guy Charles Ingram, M.S.M., C.D.

New Lowell, Ontario

Major Ingram demonstrated foresight, dedication and leadership with the 3 Canadian Ranger Patrol Group. He successfully expanded Ranger operational capabilities beyond their traditional surveillance and sovereignty roles, thereby enabling the Canadian Forces to provide a more immediate and effective response in Northern Ontario. As commanding officer since 2007, he has played a key role in the development, introduction and expansion of the Junior Canadian Ranger Program. Major Ingram's vision and innovation greatly enhanced the quality and reach of this program to thousands of Aboriginal youth.

Colonel Eric Jean Kenny, M.S.M., C.D.

Medley, Alberta

While deployed on multiple NATO missions throughout 2011, Colonel Kenny was critical to the success of the Canadian Forces' air operations. Initially deployed to Iceland, he excelled as task force commander and effectively led the mission to protect that country's airspace. Subsequently deploying to Italy twice in support of operations in Libya, he provided leadership as CF-18 detachment commander and represented Canada as commander of the Multinational Air Coordination Element. Colonel Kenny's efforts significantly raised the international profile of Canadian aviation.

Corporal Ashraf Khalil, M.S.M.

Ottawa, Ontario

From March to August 2011, Corporal Khalil was deployed aboard Her Majesty's Canadian Ship Charlottetown as part of Canada's contribution to the NATO mission to protect the people of Libya. As the only Arabic linguist within the entire NATO contingent, his unique skills and unrelenting efforts were essential to operational success. Whether helping to broadcast information messages ashore or facilitating the delivery of humanitarian aid, Corporal Khalil was critical to the mission and brought great honour to Canada.

Commander Stéphane Joseph Dominique Lafond, M.S.M., C.D.

Plessisville, Quebec

Commander Lafond demonstrated extraordinary strategic planning talents and distinguished leadership while serving as director of Marine Training and Education from February to July 2011. With strong problem-solving skills, he oversaw the design, analysis and implementation of the marine training system during the transformation of the Royal Canadian Navy. Commander Lafond's accomplishments were vital in redefining the Royal Canadian Navy and renewing its fleet.

Colonel Alexander Donald Meinzinger, M.S.M., C.D.

Trenton, Ontario

As commanding officer of the Joint Task Force Afghanistan Air Wing from March to August 2011, Colonel Meinzinger ensured the provision of aviation support to Canadian, coalition and Afghan forces. He forged a highly effective team focused on counter-insurgency operations, and his air crews flew maximum hours in support of the mission. Commanding a diverse array of personnel and assets, Colonel Meinzinger was critical to the ongoing development of air capabilities and contributed directly to operational success.

Lieutenant-Colonel Mark Misener, M.S.M., C.D.

Iroquois Falls, Ontario

As commanding officer of the Task Force Kandahar Engineer Regiment, and as task force chief engineer from August 2010 to July 2011, Lieutenant-Colonel Misener was critical to the optimal employment of engineers. His acute understanding of Kandahar's complex counter-insurgency environment allowed him to lead from the front, providing exceptional guidance to his widely dispersed sub-units and ensuring the allocation of assets was in line with command intent. Thanks to Lieutenant-Colonel Misener's remarkable performance, Canadian and coalition forces received exceptional and unwavering engineer support during operations.

Commander Derek Moss, M.S.M., C.D.

Portsmouth, United Kingdom and Yellowknife, Northwest Territories

Commander Moss displayed decisive leadership of Her Majesty's Canadian Ship Regina during the interdiction of a dangerous and illegal human smuggling operation. The arrest of the motor vessel Ocean Lady during Operation Poseidon, in October 2009, highlighted precision military planning and execution between the Royal Canadian Navy, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and the Canadian Border Services Agency. In all aspects, Commander Moss was central to mission success, and his actions brought great credit to the Canadian Forces and to Canada.

Lieutenant-Colonel John Paganini, M.S.M. (United States Army)

Old Bridge, New Jersey, United States of America

Lieutenant-Colonel Paganini, of the United States Army, performed exceptionally well as commanding officer of the 1-71 Cavalry Squadron, in Afghanistan from April 2010 to March 2011. Under his front line leadership, the squadron earned a reputation for its effectiveness and professionalism, and established itself as a critical component of Task Force Kandahar. Lieutenant-Colonel Paganini's tactical acumen and drive to succeed set an example for soldiers of all nations and were critical to the Canadian Forces' operational success in Afghanistan.

Colonel Michael Matthew Lawrence Rafter, M.S.M., C.D.

Ottawa, Ontario

From September to November 2011, Colonel Rafter displayed leadership while deployed to Italy as part of Canada's contribution to the NATO-led mission to protect the people of Libya. As chief of staff and subsequently commander of Task Force Libeccio, he arrived at a challenging time for the mission and was essential in rectifying long-standing issues and maintaining the uninterrupted conduct of flying operations. Colonel Rafter's leadership, professionalism and diplomacy were critical to operational success, and brought great credit to Canada.

Major Jeffrey Alan Rodger, M.S.M., C.D.

Victoria, British Columbia

From May to November 2011, Major Rodger was deployed as part of Canada's contribution to the NATO mission to protect the people of Libya. As flight commander of the Aurora Detachment, he developed new aircraft capabilities that brought unique benefits to the operation. He took a Cold War-era submarine hunter and redefined it as a first-rate surveillance platform able to operate effectively over land. Major Rodger's efforts contributed directly to operational success.

Major Harjit Sajjan, M.S.M., C.D.

Vancouver, British Columbia

Major Sajjan deployed to Afghanistan as a special advisor from February to November 2009, and from November 2010 to March 2011. His approach, based on his knowledge of local culture and tribal dynamics, helped senior management to engage with influential Afghan tribal leaders, and led to the identification of insurgent command and control connection points. Taking every opportunity to deploy forward to refine his leads, Major Sajjan provided critical situational awareness and reduced the Taliban's influence in Kandahar province through his sound analysis.

Colonel James Baxter Simms, O.M.M., M.S.M., C.D.

Kingston, Ontario

As chief of staff within Regional Command (South) Headquarters from September 2008 to June 2009, Colonel Simms performed remarkably well in leading planning efforts for a massive expansion of coalition and Afghan soldiers in southern Afghanistan. He revamped command and control processes to effectively manage an additional 24 000 troops while simultaneously overseeing the planning and synchronization of ongoing combat operations. Colonel Simms' visionary leadership was critical to effectively integrating the troop surge, and contributed directly to improved security in the region.

Colonel Steven Joseph Russell Whelan, M.S.M., C.D.

Ottawa, Ontario

From July 2010 to September 2011, Colonel Whelan served as commander of Task Force Jerusalem, in support of Palestinian security reform. He set conditions for major changes within the Palestinian Security Forces' institutional and operational components, and forged a superb military-civilian team that built needed infrastructure and provided advanced training. Colonel Whelan's performance facilitated the ongoing professionalization of Palestinian Security Forces, highlighting Canada's role as an important contributor to the Middle East peace process.

FACT SHEET ON MERITORIOUS SERVICE DECORATIONS

The Meritorious Service Decorations include a military division and a civil division, with two levels each: a medal and a cross. The military division recognizes individuals for their outstanding professionalism and for bringing honour to the Canadian Forces and to Canada. The civil division recognizes individuals who have performed an exceptional deed or an activity that brought honour to the community or to Canada.

The Meritorious Service Cross (Military Division) recognizes a military deed or activity that has been performed in an outstandingly professional manner, according to a rare high standard that brings considerable benefit or great honour to the Canadian Forces.

The Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division) recognizes a military deed or activity performed in a highly professional manner, according to a very high standard that brings benefit or honour to the Canadian Forces.

These decorations are an important part of the Canadian Honours System, which recognizes excellence. Meritorious Service Decorations honour either a single achievement or an activity over a specified period. The Meritorious Service Decorations are open to both Canadians and non-Canadians.

Anyone may nominate an individual for the civil division of the Meritorious Service Decorations, while military candidates are recommended by the chief of the Defence Staff. Nominations and awards may be made posthumously, but nominations for activities that occurred prior to June 1984, the year in which the honour was first created, are not accepted.